FAQ

Where can I smoke on campus?

The University's number one goal is to provide a healthy environment for all students, faculty, staff and visitors. The tobacco-free campus policy will assist in meeting this goal by removing all ash urns throughout campus and replacing them with signage indicating we are now tobacco-free. Therefore; students, faculty, staff and visitors are not allowed to smoke anywhere on campus to include all buildings and structures, privately owned and University vehicles, sidewalks, parking lots, attached parking structures and walkways. Please see the campus map below for the campus boundary.

How will the policy be enforced?

As a higher institute of education, bringing awareness to personnel on the importance of having a tobacco-free environment will play a major role in enforcing this policy. In addition, the University will bring awareness through signage, electronic messaging, events and other marketing. Lastly, it is the responsibility of everyone at Clayton State to kindly inform others of the tobacco-free campus policy and ask that they stop using tobacco products on campus.

Does this policy apply to satellite locations?

This policy applies to satellite campus locations as well.

Does this policy apply to sanctioned events or sporting events off campus property?

The tobacco-free campus policy applies only to University owned, operated, leased, occupied, or controlled property. Any events or activities elsewhere are governed by the policies at that location.

Will there be physical signs that state we are a tobacco-free campus?

Yes, signs with the international symbol for tobacco-free are posted in major areas throughout the University. However, the tobacco-free campus policy applies to the entire campus and satellite locations even if there is not a visible posted sign.

Will electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) be allowed?

No. E-cigarettes are included in the list of unauthorized tobacco products therefore; their usage on campus, at campus events located on campus, and at satellite campuses are prohibited.

What do I say to someone using tobacco on University property?

"Hi, I just wanted to make you aware that Clayton State is a tobacco-free campus. All types of tobacco products are prohibited on campus. We would appreciate if you abide by our policy and not use tobacco products while here. Thank you for your cooperation."

Have other universities banned the use of tobacco?

Yes. According to the American Nonsmokers' Rights Foundation, there are more than 700 college and university campuses across the United States that have implemented a 100% tobacco-free policy. In addition, the University System of Georgia Board of Regents voted in March of 2014 that all forms of tobacco products on property owned, leased, rented or in the possession of the USG will be prohibited.

Isn't tobacco use a personal right?

Tobacco is a legal product for adults. The University is not requiring anyone to quit using tobacco. However, the University can develop policies for campus property. A tobacco-free policy does not prohibit tobacco use; it instead establishes where usage can occur. It is our hope that tobacco users will respect the University's adoption of a tobacco-free environment.

I have additional questions about the tobacco-free initiative that were not answered here?

As a new initiative to campus, we are continuously updating information on the tobacco-free website. If you still have additional questions, please email [need email address for tobacco-free].